Heathrow Express
The fastest way to central London: non-stop to Paddington in 15 minutes, every 15 minutes. It is also a free ride between Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 5.
Book an Advance single at least 30 days ahead for the cheapest fare. Children aged 15 and under travel free in Standard with a paying adult.
What it is
Heathrow Express is a non-stop train between Heathrow and London Paddington. It leaves every 15 minutes and takes 15 minutes from Terminals 2 and 3, or 21 minutes from Terminal 5.
Which terminals it serves
- Terminals 2 and 3: one shared station, Heathrow Central, reached from both terminals.
- Terminal 5: its own station below the terminal.
- Terminal 4: not served. Use the Elizabeth line or the Piccadilly line instead.
Fares
Standard class fares are from £10 for an Advance single when you book at least 30 days ahead. A single is £26, a same-day return is £30, and a return is £42. Children aged 15 and under travel free in Standard with a paying adult. Prices change, so check them on the Heathrow Express site before you book.
Using it between terminals
Heathrow Express is free between Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 5, and the ride takes about six minutes. You still need a ticket, but it costs nothing: collect one from the platform machines or tap in with contactless or Oyster.
When it suits a hotel stay
- Staying at a Terminal 5 or Terminals 2 and 3 hotel and flying from the other? This is the quickest way across.
- Arriving late into Paddington? Check the last train before you rely on it.
- Staying at a Terminal 4 hotel? Use the Elizabeth line, which does serve Terminal 4.
Checked against Heathrow, TfL and the operators on 14 November 2026. Fares and times change, so confirm before you travel.
Traveller questions
Does Heathrow Express go to Terminal 4?
No. It serves Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 5 only. From Terminal 4, take the Elizabeth line or the Piccadilly line.
Is Heathrow Express free between terminals?
Yes, between Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 5. You still need a ticket, which is free, or you can tap in with contactless or Oyster.
How much does Heathrow Express cost?
Standard fares are from £10 for an Advance single booked at least 30 days ahead, £26 for a single and £30 for a same-day return. Children aged 15 and under travel free in Standard with a paying adult. Check the current fares on the Heathrow Express site.
When is the first and last train?
The first train from Paddington leaves at 04:34 Monday to Saturday, and the first from Heathrow is around 05:12 to 05:17. Last trains run close to midnight, so check the timetable if you land late.
Is it worth it over the Elizabeth line?
It is faster, at 15 minutes to Paddington against about 28 on the Elizabeth line, and it costs more. If you are staying near Paddington or flying out early, it is the simplest option.